For Hayes Raudenbush, a career in healthcare always felt like a natural fit.

Growing up in a family of healthcare professionals, he was surrounded by people dedicated to helping others. His mother and grandmother both worked in nursing, while his father served as an EMT. While those examples inspired him, Raudenbush also wanted to carve out a path of his own. 

“I always wanted to be in healthcare. Medical has always been in my family, but I wanted to do something different than what my family had already done,” said Raudenbush.

That path led him to Pierpont Community & Technical College’s Respiratory Care program, where he found the opportunity to combine his interest in medicine with hands-on patient care.

Over his time in the program, the Morgantown native has built more than clinical skills. Through classroom instruction, clinical experiences, and serving in the Student Government Association, Raudenbush has grown as both a healthcare professional and a leader.

For him, some of the most rewarding moments have been during clinical rotations.

“Working in the ICUs and getting hands-on experience with my fellow students and clinical preceptors has been the most rewarding part of the program,” he said.

His involvement with the Student Government Association offered another opportunity to grow. 

“I’ve always liked helping people and wanted to do something more than just take my classes,” he said. “It’s given me a lot of leadership experience and opportunities to see and participate in the behind-the-scenes work of the college.”

As graduation approaches, Raudenbush is already looking ahead. He hopes to continue his education through Ohio State University’s Respiratory Care Practitioner program and eventually earn a master’s degree.

Reflecting on his time at Pierpont, he points to the relationships he built along the way.

“Everyone here treats you like family rather than just a number,” he said. “The staff, student services, and support here at Pierpont have been tremendously helpful.”

For Raudenbush, graduation will represent more than earning a degree. It will mark two years of hard work, dedication, and the beginning of the next chapter in a healthcare career built on service to others.